Taxpayers have two options when filing a federal or state income tax return. Taxpayers can have their tax returns professionally prepared or they can prepare their own taxes. Whatever tax preparation option an individual chooses, it is likely they will have a number of tax questions. To find the answer to a tax question many taxpayers research and review general tax information. Since each state has different tax laws and tax forms, taxpayers looking for tax information are encouraged to contact their local or state government. Many local county officials may be able to answer common tax questions or point taxpayers in the right direction if they are unable to help. The majority of state tax officials can be contacted by obtaining a phone number from the Internet. In addition to using the Internet as a way to obtain contact information, many taxpayers may also be able to find valuable state tax information on the Internet. The majority of states have a website that is related to state taxes. It is not uncommon for a number of these tax websites to offer tax tips and other valuable state tax information. Since the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) taxes individuals and businesses nationwide in the same way, it is often easier to obtain tax information from them. To obtain valuable tax information from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS), taxpayers are encouraged to visit the website of the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) which can be found at http://www.irs.gov. Many taxpayers find the website extremely helpful when looking to obtain tax information. Individuals can download tax forms, learn about updated tax laws, find a list of common tax deductions, and more. Individuals with a tax question about their federal tax return are encouraged to check out the "most frequently asked questions and answers" section. Tax preparation classes are another great way for taxpayers to learn valuable tax information. The majority of tax preparation courses begin in September; however, they can start as late as December. Taking a tax preparation course is likely to cost a small fee; however, many taxpayers feel it is a wise investment. Many tax preparation courses teach individuals how to accurately prepare their own taxes; however, they also offer advice on maximizing tax deductions and other tax credits. Tax preparation courses are often advertised in local newspapers and they tend to fill up quickly; therefore, individuals interested in taking a tax preparation course are encouraged to sign up for the course right away. http://www.taxhelpdirectory.com/taxpreparation/.Obtaining valuable tax information is the best way for taxpayers to accurately prepare their tax returns. Why make a mistake on your tax return that could prevent your tax return from being processed or causing a delay in your tax refund when it is so easy to be prepared. Use the above mentioned tax information resources to make the tax preparation process more manageable and less stressful.